3 Things Single Moms Can Fix Themselves And 2 They Shouldn’t
Single moms are not known for their overabundance of cash. When something breaks, a bit of DYI magic can really help them save a lot of money; however, they’re also not known for their overabundance of spare time. As a single mom, you need to pick your battles carefully to make sure a weekend project doesn’t stretch out over a few weeks. You need to find that sweet spot of money-saved-versus-time-spent. To help you find it, here are three things that you can absolutely fix on your own and two fixes that you should leave to the pros.
woman wearing a tool belt
Fix: Change Your
HVAC Filter
If you’re
finding your home’s heat or A/C isn’t operating as efficiently as possible
(i.e. your hydro bills are noticeably higher than last year), the problem could
be a dirty HVAC filter.
How often
should you change them?
Single occupancy or vacation home: Every 6
months
Family home with no pets: Every 90 days
Family home with pets: Every 60 days
Family with multiple pets or serious
allergies: Every 20-45 days
An air
filter is about $20.00, give or take. The step-by-step is
also incredibly simple and can make a huge difference in your home’s energy-efficiency
and air quality.
Fix: A Running
Toilet
A toilet that runs all the time is annoying and a water-waster, but you may not have to call a plumber.
In most
cases, the toilet flapper inside the tank isn’t making a tight seal after a
flush, causing water to just keep leaking through it. This is a super-easy fix
and you can pick up a kit in any hardware store.
Fix: A Blown
Fuse
Older homes
are notoriously bad for this problem. Old fuses are prone to blow any time
you’re using too much power in a given room.
If your garage door has stopped opening or closing, you can try replacing the batteries in the remote; however, we wouldn’t do much more than that.
The garage door is expensive and complex, as well as potentially dangerous. Your best bet is to call the experts in garage door repair to come in and fix things. The risk-versus-reward ratio is simply not there for this fix.
Don’t Try to
Fix: Gas Leaks
This one is
automatic. Never, ever try to fix this by yourself.
In fact, if you smell gas, get your children and pets out of the house right away and call your gas company’s 24-hour emergency number. They should be able to dispatch a trained and certified technician to find and fix the problem safely.
3 Things Single Moms Can Fix Themselves And 2 They Shouldn’t
The more expensive and potentially dangerous a piece of equipment is, the more hesitant you may be to go near it, even when it fails; however, your furnace, your toilet and your fuse boxes are safe enough for the fixes we talked about today. Meanwhile, anything with complex machinery, electrical wiring, or gas should be left to the pros.
It’s no secret to most of us that sleep is the most important factor for being healthy. While lack of sleep is often attributed to adults, there is increasing evidence that even children are not sleeping as well as they should. There are many reasons why this might be the case.
Person laying in bed
Why You Are Struggling To Get Enough Sleep
Stress
The first and most obvious reason that families are sleeping less than they should is stress related. Adults have the strain of work and parenting to keep them from feeling rested and children feel stress related to school and commitments like sports. Younger children are often losing sleep related to the increasing difficulty of scheduling all of the things that parents and older children in the house need time for during the average day.
Home Conflict
Some less apparent causes of stress and lack of sleep are things like chaos in the home related to divorce or conflict between parents and older children. Other factors that are sometimes neglected are things like consistent sleep schedules and the prohibitive cost of quality mattresses and beds. Some children report that sharing bedroom space can cause them to be kept awake by older siblings when they should be sleeping.
As the cost of living increases, it is more likely that kids
will have to share space. It is possible to make safe and quiet spaces for each
person in the home through the use of privacy curtains or rules to limit the
impact of variable awake times on members of the home. Taking a little time to
make a schedule and stick to it can work wonders for everyone in the home.
Women looking at their cell phones
Blue Light
Perhaps the most insidious reason that families are not sleeping enough is related to computers and phones. Blue light is all around us. We work all day exposed to blue light and then we come home and use our phones to entertain us. Blue light disrupts our internal clock and the increasing screen time that we are all exposed to makes it less and less likely that we will be able to get enough sleep at night. Even if we are sleeping, our sleep is likely not the quality that is needed to wake feeling rested.
What Can You Do?
Limit Screen Time
Thankfully, there are some easy solutions that can help your family to sleep better. Limit screen time for everyone in the house. Make sure that you and your children are not looking at a phone or computer screen at least one hour before bed. Follow consistent sleep and awake schedules, even on the weekend. Make sure that you seek help from a professional if there is conflict in the home that is impacting the welfare of everyone. A happy family is much more likely to sleep well than a stressed family.
Choose A More
Comfortable Mattress
If you feel that the beds in your house are diminishing your ability to sleep, it’s time to purchase new mattresses, an air foam mattress is unique and best mattress softness for side sleepers adding great advantages for a perfect sleep routine.The majority of mattresses have a lifespan of between 7-10 years. For best results, a mattress should be replaced within 10 years. Generally, foam and latex mattresses tend to last longer than the average lifespan. When you buy a foam mattress for you and your family such as bed in a box mattresses, they are less expensive, which also saves you money!
Why Canadian Families Are Struggling To Get Enough Sleep
Sleep
On Time
Aim for eight hours of sleep minimum each night and make sure that your children are on a schedule that allows them to do the same. Working as a team to make the whole family healthier makes it much more likely that everyone will sleep well and feel better. Prioritize sleep over fun time during the week so that everyone can be happy and healthy all week long.
KLIIN is a Quebec-based company owned by Marie-Pierre Bérubé. Her entrepreneurial goal is to stay true to KLIIN’s ecological mission to encourage consumers to adopt new easy-on-the-environment practices. KLIIN offers a line of innovative and eco-responsible household products, including the launch of a first-of-its-kind concentrated dish cleansing paste, complete with degreasing power that is designed to deliver squeaky-clean shine to all it touches.
KLIIN Dish Cleansing Paste in lime scent.
KLIIN Eco-friendly Dish Cleansing Paste Review
You can use KLIIN dish cleansing paste in place of traditional dishwashing liquid, and it’s as effective as a general household power cleaner. KLIIN dish cleansing paste has triple the shelf life of traditional dishwashing products and requires less water consumption, translating into cost efficiencies for consumers. It is available in lemon or lime scent.
The concentrated dish cleansing paste is three times more economical than popular dishwashing liquids because it lasts three times longer. Its compact size minimizes packaging, reducing the carbon footprint associated with its transportation and the processing of recyclable waste.
After using KLIIN Eco-friendly Dish Cleansing Paste to wash our family dishes, I have to admit that I am definitely preferring it over using liquid dish soap. All you need is a small amount to clean a sink full of greasy dishes. It does wonders on pots and pans and the paste uses less water and less packaging than traditional liquid detergent. The dishes get cleaner with less effort. Even my kids wanted to wash the pans after dinner!
Complete Clean, Zero Waste
Unlike traditional cleaning products that are made of 70% water, KLIIN’s dish cleansing paste has a concentrated and soluble formula that significantly reduces water consumption – both by its ingredient list and through its washing process.
KLIIN dish cleansing paste has triple the shelf life of traditional dishwashing products.
“Our research shows that most households wash dishes one or two pieces at a time, which results in water wastage as opposed to washing a sink-full of dishes that have piled up,” said KLIIN Founder and entrepreneur Marie-Pierre Bérubé. “KLIIN dish cleansing paste is perfectly suited for wash-as-you-go households because it eliminates the need to fill a sink with soapy water each time.” With KLIIN’s new product, users simply apply the paste with a rag or a damp sponge, scrub and rinse clean using only the water needed. Studies show that water-infused traditional detergents cause more suds to accumulate, requiring the need to use more water for rinsing.
“Consumer interest in green products is booming on a global scale and certain countries are ahead of the game,” Bérubé said. “Like the reusable towels I discovered in Europe, I found the eco-friendly dish cleansing paste during a recent trip and immediately knew that North Americans would appreciate having this brilliant product in their homes.”
KLIIN Creates a Splash With Eco-friendly Dish Cleansing Paste
KLIIN Powerful all-purpose cleaner
With a powerful degreasing agent, KLIIN dish cleansing paste is also an efficient multipurpose solution for cleaning household surfaces in the kitchen such as sinks, countertops, stovetops, ovens, range hoods and ceramic surfaces, as well as for removing soap residue in the bathroom from glass shower doors and bathtubs.
A quick dip into this biodegradable solution can also give new life to KLIIN’s reusable towels and infuse them with the citrusy scent of lemon or lime. Available at selected retailers and KLIIN online store, KLIIN dish cleansing paste which will last about six months when used every day. It comes in a 250g container.
Requiring less water than traditional dishwashing products, KLIIN dish cleansing paste is cost efficient.
KLIIN New reusable towel designs
In conjunction of the launch of its new paste, KLIIN has unveiled a series of green-inspired botanical towel designs in time for spring that proudly celebrate its Quebec roots. Entrusting creative carte blanche to local illustrator ERDENE and Canadian textile designer Alissa Kloet from Keephouse Studio for select collections, the new line also includes limited-edition designs by homegrown brands Dans le sac, La Maison Lavande, PUR Vodka, COOK IT, and several others. Continuously working towards creating ecologically responsible solutions, KLIIN’s most recent innovations also include 100% compostable compressed sponges and hand soap sheets.
Widely popular since its launch in 2018, KLIIN reusable towels have been enthusiastically embraced by consumers who love their versatility and efficiency compared to paper towels. One compostable KLIIN towel is the equivalent of 17 rolls of traditional paper towels, biodegrades in 28 days, and holds up to 15 times its weight in water.
Users can easily replace cloths and sponges with these handy powerhouse towels that clean without leaving streaks and dry odour-free in seconds. Machine washable (even a run in the dishwasher will do) up to 300 times, the towels are entirely compostable and break down within 28 days.
KLIIN dish cleansing paste is designed to deliver squeaky-clean shine to all surfaces it touches.
KLIIN towels
KLIIN towels are available in three sizes:
6.75” X 8”
9.5” X 10”
12” X 20” which can be used as a drying mat
5-sheet rolls
Compressed sponges (package of two)
For more information, to order online, or to find a list of retailers, check out their KLIIN’s website! You can also follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
When we think of St. Patrick’s Day, or Ireland, for that matter, we think of the colour green. The green of the lush landscape of Ireland, a leprechaun’s hat, or, most especially, the shamrock, which is always associated with this day. So, why do people wear green on St. Patrick’s day? Read on!
Women wearing a green shirt
In the past, green was not exactly a favourite colour in Ireland, and, in some areas, was even considered unlucky. Let’s have a look at the history of wearing green on St Patrick’s day.
The Shamrock
The shamrock is the primary symbol of the green, but, amazingly enough, not Ireland’s national symbol, which is the harp. According to ancient history, the shamrock was important in Ireland before Christianity. It was supposedly sacred to the Druids, because the shape resembled the triad, or the mystical group of three. When St. Patrick arrived in the 5th century, he used this familiar plant and it’s importance to explain the Trinity.
The first mention of the shamrock appears in English in 1571, and in written Irish, in 1707. Using it as a badge worn on St. Patrick’s feast day, was first recorded in 1681. Today, on St. Patrick’s Day, a member of the British Royal Family presents shamrocks to the Irish Guards regiment.
Why People Wear Green On St. Patrick’s Day
Wearing Green
The term, “the wearin’ o’ the green” began in the 19th century, and referred to anyone who wore the shamrock. It was a symbol that you were part of the rebellion, and a dangerous ornament to wear. It was considered so rebellious to wear the shamrock during the reign of Queen Victoria, that the troops were forbidden to wear it.
The shamrock today has been registered as a trademark by the Government of Ireland, and, is used on almost everything imaginable. It’s symbol is found on flags, stamps, coins, and even as decorative motifs on furniture.
In Chicago, the green river tradition began when a pipe fitter’s union dumped one hundred gallons of green vegetable dye into the river. Today, less dye is dumped into the Chicago river because of environmental concerns.
Do you wear green on st patrick’s day?
Without a doubt, to the millions of people who claim some form of Irish ancestry, green will always be worn on St. Patrick’s Day. Going one step further each year, St. Patrick’s Day food and drink are also sometimes dyed green to commemorate the day! Comment below if you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by wearing green!
Saint Patrick’s Day is coming soon and it is time for fun green ideas for all ages. Both adults and children can have fun celebrating this Irish Holiday without having to enter one single pub. There are many great things that a person can do to get in the spirit of the day.
Green Ideas For Saint Patrick’s Day
Going green for Saint Patrick’s day means going all out! Green is the colour that is directly related to St. Patrick’s Day and it is fun to use it. Follow these fun green ideas! First, start with decorations. Second, hang up green streamers and hand made green shamrocks. Third, use the leftover paper from the shamrocks to make confetti.
Green Decorations Ideas
A green tablecloth would be a perfect accent to any decorated room. If you do not own one, dye an old white sheet, or use washable paints to temporarily decorate it. You may want to make a centrepiece out of leafy green flowers or a simple bucket to symbolize the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Wear Green
Another fund green idea is to take the expression “going green” literally. Everybody knows that if you do not wear green today, you are going to get pinched. Be the original one at the party and use green body paint to cover yourself from head to toe. (Make sure the paint is washable.)
Green Food Ideas
Keep with the green theme ideas by serving foods that are green like these Matcha Pudding Shots. A little drop of food colouring will turn drab plain coloured foods into Saint Patrick’s Day teats without changing their overall flavour. You may even want to serve green Kool-Aid, vegetables with dip, Shamrock shake, or other fun finger foods.
Being Green
A very popular green idea right now is recycling and being more Earth friendly and conscious. Keep your materials separated. Think about the three important R’s: Reduce/Reuse/Recycle. It doesn’t have to be Earth day for you to take care of the planet.
Green Activities for Kids
For children, provide fun green St. Patrick’s Day activities and crafts. Learn songs and poems or read books together. Do research and study fun facts together about Saint Patrick’s Day. Create or print out your own St.Patrick’s colouring pages. Let your children make homemade greeting cards for the important people in their lives. Have a fun treasure hunt that will lead each child involved to its own pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Fun Green Ideas For Saint Patrick’s Day
Use your imagination and ask your family members for help. The important thing is that you are celebrating another holiday together. It is possible that you are starting a St Patrick’s day tradition and you are making memories that will last forever.
Fully Loaded Cookies are all the rage! Whoever came up with idea was ingenious, don’t you think? It’s the perfect solution to satisfying a cookie craving without going through all the trouble of making dozens of cookies. This skillet cookies recipe is just so easy to make… totally simple to prepare, in almost no time at all.
Super Easy Skillet Fully Loaded Cookies
If you don’t already own a small cast-iron skillet, you may want to invest in one especially in order to make cast-iron skillet cookie recipes. Many times you can find used skillets at thrift stores or garage sales. They may not be in the best shape; however, it’s not that difficult to remove rust and get them looking as good as new.
So easy to make
The ease of this recipe lies in the pre-made chocolate chip cookie dough. This dough is pretty versatile, when you think about it. Besides making easy skillet cookies, you can roll it out and cut it with cookie cutters, make cookie cups using a muffin tin, and more.
It’s always good to keep a couple of rolls of cookie dough in the freezer for emergency treats and occasions. If you use coupons and wait until the dough goes on sale, you can pick it up fairly inexpensively.
Substitutions
Back to the recipe… what I like about it is the fact that you can get creative, if you want to. Switch out the chocolate chip dough for oatmeal or sugar cookie dough. Instead of using Oreos, substitute another type of sandwich cookie. You can also omit the cookies and peanut butter cups and simply make chocolate chip skillet cookies. The combinations are almost endless!
Super Easy Skillet Fully Loaded Cookies
Skillet Fully Loaded Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a fun gift to give to someone, consider this. Purchase a small cast-iron skillet, along with a variety of skillet cookie mix-ins like the ones shown in the photo. All the recipient has to do is purchase the refrigerated cookie dough and they are in for an ooey-gooey homemade treat whenever the mood hits them!
Makes 1 small cast iron
Ingredients
2 Rolls of chocolate chip cookie dough
5 Reese peanut butter cups, unwrapped
5 Double stuffed Oreos
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Pam spray
How to make skillet cookies
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Spray your cast iron with the pam spray.
Take one cookie dough roll and pat it into the bottom of the pan.
Alternating between the Oreos and Reese cups, place them on the edge of the cookie dough creating a circle.
Add the chocolate chips into the centre of the circle.
Sprinkle the marshmallows on top of the chocolate chips.
Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers around the dough.
Flatten the other cookie dough, just like how you did with
the first dough, and place onto the top of your lovely creation.
Place into the oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Once baked, let sit for 10 minutes before cutting into the cookie.
Serve these best skillet cookies with ice cream, whipped cream and chocolate fudge sauce.
Enjoy!
I hope you enjoyed my Skillet Fully Loaded Cookies Recipe as much as my family and myself did! If you make it, please share your photos with us on Facebook or Twitter! Also, check out all of our other Recipes!
Super Easy OMG Skillet Cookies Recipe
Lyne Proulx
This super easy skillet fully loaded cookies recipe is so simple to prepare and in almost no time at all. Get a small cast-iron skillet and start baking!
It’s International Women’s Day on March 8th! Did you know that in Germany on March 8th, 1914 was held International Women’s Day? From this time, it is always being held on March 8 in all countries. Women throughout history have changed the world with their strength, intelligence, and determination to create a better future. This International Women’s Day, Ancestry is encouraging Canadians to seek inspiration from the achievements of women in their family history!
I am excited to have the possibility to have my own DNA tested, as well as receiving a yearly subscription from Ancestry Canada to learn more about the women in my family history! Prior to my mother passing away 2 years ago, she had started our very own family tree. I remember how important it was for her to share and find her ancestors with me. I am continuing her search and can’t wait to add more names to our tree!
Ancestry Encourages Canadians to Reflect on the Achievements of Women in their Family History
A recent survey from Ancestry reveals that Canadians find female historical figures, such as Viola Desmond and Laura Secord, to be the most inspiring kind of women (35%), ahead of female celebrities (15%) or women in public office (24%).
Indeed, Canadians are more aware of the achievements of Canadian women from history than those of the women in their own family:
44% know the story of Laura Secord who warned the British of a surprise attack by the Americans in the War of 1812,
40% know that Viola Desmond is featured on the $10 bill,
A similar proportion (37%) are aware that Roberta Bondar was Canada’s first female astronaut.
Canadians (68%) say knowing more about the females in their family tree would be a source of inspiration and empowerment, yet only 15 per cent are currently very familiar with them. In fact, Canadians are more familiar with the Laura Secord story (44%) than their own grandmother’s birthday (33%) and a mere 14% know how many siblings their great-grandmother had.
By comparison, whilst half of those surveyed (49%) believe that the women in their family history have made an impact on women’s rights and equality, the majority (70%) are not aware of any stories from these women regarding the achievements they reached or challenges they overcame.
Family Tree
Lesley Anderson, family historian for Ancestrycomments, “We know that Canadians are eager to learn more about the women in their family tree so this year, to mark International Women’s Day, we are encouraging everyone to discover more about these women and draw upon their legacy as a source of inspiration and empowerment. Whether they changed the world, changed a community, or simply changed a life, these women and their incredible stories are worth honouring and celebrating this International Women’s Day.”
Dunnville, Ontario resident Chris McEvoy wanted to learn more about his family history and after conducting research and building his family tree he discovered a familiar name – Secord. He then learned that his 6th great-grandmother, Mary Secord was an aunt to the famous Laura Secord:
“I was amazed to discover through building my family tree that I was connected to Laura Secord who is such an inspiring historical figure in Canada,” said Chris. “But what was even more fascinating to me was learning about my 6th great-grandmother Mary. Her story is one of courage and resilience. She survived three husbands, two wars, a hard and long journey from the US to Canada, a refugee camp, and then went on to live to 106.”
Lesley continues, “To get started, ask your oldest living relative about the women in your family tree, get as much information as you can – birth, marriage and death dates and places, and occupations. Listen to their stories, take notes, and then head onto Ancestry.ca to build a family tree and learn more about their story from the historic records available.”
As we unite this International Women’s Day to support a gender equal world, Ancestry is encouraging Canadians to reflect on the collective achievements of the women that came before us. We all have these stories of incredible women in our family trees and they’re just waiting to be discovered!
With all the effort, love and care that mothers are giving to their respective families, there are times that they need some time to relax and pamper themselves with spa treatments!
Between raising a family, building a successful career, and fitting in household chores, this often leaves mothers with minimal downtime to spend on themselves. According to the Industry Briefing Papers of the Global Wellness Summit, 64% of the spa clients in Canada are female, with an average age of 42 years old.
Popular Spa Treatments
A mother who is a bookworm may want to slouch on a nook to read her favourite book, while an active mom may devote time to sports or her fitness regimen. However, for those of us who enjoy a bit of splurging on self-care, check out these popular spa treatments that are sure to pamper any busy moms on the go.
Give Your Skincare VIP treatment
Health and wellness centres offer facial and skin care services that are custom-made depending on your skin type. Skin care products under the name of the spa are also gaining popularity as it dominates the sales of other items like apparel, cosmetic and personal care products. Keep a lookout for holiday spa specials, especially for moms during Mother’s Day.
Indulge in A Massage
Getting a massage is considered as the most popular service among Canadian spa visitors. There you can release your stress and loosen tight muscles with gentle pats to pressured or firmer strokes and techniques depending on what you need. There are many variations you can choose from like the Swedish and deep tissue massage, aromatherapy massage, and hot stone massage. You can even bring your partner and relax together for a couple massage.
Detox With Body Treatments
It is not only our face that needs pampering, our whole body deserves a detox and special treatments that are also available in spas. Body scrubs are considered facials for the body that removes dead and exfoliate dry skin. The scrub is often followed by a shower, lotion or body wrap which can detoxify or hydrate the body making it soft and smooth.
Popular Spa Treatments For Every Busy Mom
With the fast-paced world that we are living in now, it is just essential to spend some time to relax and recharge. After all, the best way we can care for our families is to start by taking care of ourselves with self-love.
Yay, it’s a leap year! I challenge you all to take advantage of the extra day we have this year on February 29th! Try something you’ve never done before as a family and enjoy your time together by embracing the great Canadian Winter. We have written an article that includes fun indoor and outdoor family activities that you can take part with your children.
Woman and child in the snow.
Take Advantage of February 29th – It Only Comes Once Every Four Years!
It seems that as a mom, I am always so busy working, cleaning the house, doing the laundry, and grocery shopping that these days I am expected to be in five places at once and juggle the weight of the world! There just simply aren’t enough hours in a day! Can I please have 4 more hours, minimum!
It’s definitely important to take the time during the winter months to go outside and enjoy exciting winter activities with your family. You have an extra day on February 29th, so go outside and enjoy the winter scenery!
The 3 winter activities below are my favourites:
Go snowshoeing
Chances are, you’re not too far from a national park or scenic trail that is optimal for snowshoeing. Snowshoes have come a long way from the tennis racket-esque versions you’re probably expecting and are often available to rent from national parks or adventure stores. It’s a great way to take in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery and not to mention it’s great exercise. Your kids will love the novelty of floating on top of the snow! Try it out on February 29th!
Build a snow cave
It’s also likely that there are ample amounts of snow not too far away or even in your own backyard. Building a snow cave is a simple cold-day activity. Make sure you have enough shovels for the whole family since it’s a team effort. Once the structure is complete, let it harden for a few hours and then create an entrance way and hollow it out. If it’s big enough, you can even carve out snow benches inside! Grab your snow pants and chill out with a cup of hot chocolate to add warmth.
Visit somewhere new
Canada is chalk-full of amazing winter destinations featuring everything from scenic ski resorts to lively festivals. Whether it’s teaching the kids to skate on Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, taking part in the Quebec Winter Carnival festivities, skiing at the beautiful Lake Louise, or visiting the Northwest Territories to take in the northern lights, find something your family will enjoy and will remember for years to come.
Trying something brand new will not only be different and exciting, but will also break up the monotonous schedules we adhere to when juggling work and family. Getting outside is also great for your health!
Aromatherapy is a gentle, safe, and effective therapeutic technique for a host of childhood ailments and disorders. Essential oils have brilliant healing properties and help regain and maintain health and well being. Working within a holistic framework, aromatherapy helps provide everyday healthcare. Children are vulnerable, and require gentler and sometimes slightly different treatment from adults. Aromatherapy for children and babies uses essential oils that are considerably more diluted.
Chamomile essential oil
Benefits of Using Aromatherapy for Babies and Children
The health benefits of using aromatherapy are innumerable. A massage using essential oils yields wonderful advantages. Massaging is a lovely way for a parent and child to really connect with one another.
Certain essential oils have a mildly sedative effect, and when massaged onto baby’s skin will induce a peaceful sleep. Myrtle mixed with Lavender is a gentle, effective, and safe blend for children.
Some essential oils, particularly Chamomile, are nick-named ‘children’s essential oil’. Chamomile is one of the best essential oils to use with babies. The oil exerts soothing and calming effects and is highly recommended in cases of sleeplessness, irritability, peevishness, temper tantrums, tummy upsets, and teething trouble.
Safety Guidelines While Using Aromatherapy for Babies and Children
For the purpose of aromatherapy, children are categorized in
to infants of one to five years and six to fourteen years. Above fourteen
years, the child can be treated as one would treat an adult.
The following guidelines enable one to safely and successfully use essential oils for children:
For infants who are one year old, use ½ % essential oil: one drop of the essential oil in 10 ml of base oil (coconut oil, almond oil, wheat germ oil or avocado oil).
For children of five to fourteen years, use 1 % essential oil: one drop of the essential in 5 ml of base oil.
Safe essential oils for children are: Lavender, Myrtle, Chamomile, Neroli, Rose, and Benzoin.
Essential oils for bath or as massage oils: Always remember to mix the essential oil in the base oil (even for the bath).
There is so much to know before you set sail on a Disney cruise, from what to pack and what activities to do, that it can all seem a bit overwhelming. If this is your first Disney cruise, don’t worry. We have you covered with some great Disney cruise hacks to know before sailing!
Disney Cruise Ship
Disney cruise hacks and tips
1. Board Early
It just makes sense, but it goes for the cruise, too. Get there early and board early whenever possible!
2. Do A Character Call
This is my favourite Disney cruise hack! You can surprise your kids by receiving a phone call from a Disney character before you leave home for your cruise. It’s free!
3. Get Pressed Penny Souvenirs
Pressed pennies are popular at Disney parks, but you can also get them on a Disney cruise to add to your collection. You will find the machine at the cruise terminal in Port Canaveral. There are six designs to choose from.
Belle sitting with 2 girls. Photo credit: Disney-Matt Stroshane, photographer
5. Schedule a Meet And Greets
There are scheduled meet and greets with your favourite characters on the Disney cruise ship the same as at the Disney Parks!
6. Decorate Your Door
A fun Disney cruise hack! All the doors can look alike so you can use magnets to personalize the outside of your door and make it easier for you and the kids to spot when you’re coming back “home”. Please take note that the Concierge staterooms on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have wooden doors. You may not use tape or any adhesive, including removable gel adhesives, as this can damage the doors’ finish.
7. Bring A Power Strip
This a practical Disney cruise hack! There are not many outlets in your cruise ship cabin, especially to accommodate today’s average family usage of devices. You can bring a power strip from home to get more space for charging smartphones, tablets, and more.
Great Disney Cruise Hacks to Make Your Trip Better
With these Disney Cruise hacks, you’ll be all ready to set sail on your very own Disney Cruise.
If your basement is currently an unused storage space or a forgotten corner of your home, it might be time to reimagine its potential! Transforming your basement into a family room is one of the best ways to bring everyone together, add value to your home, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s movie nights, friendly game competitions, or cozy weekends indoors, a well-designed game room can quickly become the most loved spot in the house.
Here are four reasons why this strategy would serve you well for a long time.
1. A Safe Place for the Kids
Safety is one of the primary concerns when you have children. You want them to have space that’s secure so they can play all sorts of games and enjoy different amusements while still remaining under your watchful eye. The nice thing about converting the basement into a play room is that it’s a contained space. You always know where the kids are, what they’re doing, and who is with them.
2. The Adults Can Enjoy the Space Too
A game room in the basement is also a great thing for the
adults. You and your spouse can easily set up part of the space with some type
of television, comfortable seats, and maybe a card table for board games. While
the kids are doing their thing, you can be nearby watching a movie, reading a
book, or playing one of the games that you and your spouse enjoy.
This is a great arrangement since the entire family gets to be together. Even so, everyone is doing something that they like to do. If the kids are in the mood, they can always join in the games that the adults are playing, or at least begin to discover the fun associated with learning to play some of the traditional board and card games.
3. All Set Up For a Rainy Day
Another point in favour of transforming the basement into a family game room is that everything is set up for use on a rainy day. While it may be pouring outside, the basement is dry, comfortable, and full of things to do. That’s a great alternative when playing outside just isn’t possible right now.
4. No Need to Tidy Up When Company Comes
What happens when someone rings the doorbell? If you
weren’t expecting company, that usually begins a mad dash around the house to
tidy up the living and dining areas before answering the door. For people who
are not fond of shoving everything from laundry that needs to be folded to
collections of paper behind pillows and under the sofa, that game room will
serve another purpose.
Kids and adults alike can make it a habit to limit toys, games, books, papers, and other items to use in the basement game room. The only rule that applies is that those things cannot be left on the stairs or laying around, so that it’s difficult to get in and out of the basement. Otherwise, it’s fine if things are not put away.
How does that help upstairs? The living and dining areas
stay in relative order. There won’t be the need to scramble around and pick up
stray items if someone pays a visit. Think of how that will make it all the
easier for you to enjoy the company without being out of breath when you open the
front door.
4 Reasons Why You Want to Convert the Basement into a Family Game Room
There are plenty of other reasons to convert the basement into a family game room. Can you think of one that applies specifically to your family? Converting the space may be easier than you thought possible!
Travelling with a baby and young children can be sometimes challenging. Being prepared before and during your trip are the best ways to make travelling by car vs taking a plane with your children run smoothly.
Air Travelling With A Baby and Young Children
When air traveling with a baby and toddlers, being organized and prepared for anything that may arise are the only ways to make air travel less stressful. Travelling with infants or children under two years of age can fly free. This idea may sound tempting, but realizing each child will need to sit on each parent’s lap the entire flight may not make for a stress-free flight.
Here are some helpful tips to make air travel with child less stressful:
Contact the Airlines
Contact the airlines when air travelling with young children and ask about their policies in regards to seating arrangements, baby food and formula, luggage, and stroller restrictions. Also find out whom to make arrangements with for cart assistance to the next terminal and if these arrangements need to be made in advance over the phone or on the day of travel.
Air Canada Plane
Many airlines have bassinets for babies under six months old. Usually, these seats are the bulkhead seats and give more legroom to allow even toddlers the option of sitting on the floor with toys. Parents need to be aware that they will not be sitting beside one another rather across the aisle from each other due to safety regulations.
If planning to take two umbrella strollers, clips are available to attach the strollers together to make one side-by-side stroller. Using this way of combining the strollers may be slightly more difficult to push and is wider than the family bathroom’s doorway; however, using this type of stroller is better than not having one at all. Checking an airline’s website can give vital information about restrictions.
At the Terminal
Parents should ask the check-in attendant if the plane is full. The attendants are more that happy to arrange the seating to allow the toddlers the extra seats providing there are two open. If seats can be purchased prior and not having to take a chance of empty seats at the gate would be money well spent.
Packing Carry-on Luggage for Air Travel With A Baby and Young Children
Pack a set of clothes for each child in individual bags.
Pack an extra bottle above what is needed for the trip. If a child is on formula, make sure the milk is made and ready to serve. Purchase a cold/hot bag and placing the bottles in the bag with a zip lock bag of ice cubes is a great investment. Of course, if a child is on 2% milk, then fewer bottles are needed and can be refilled by the flight attendant.
Make sure enough juice boxes and snacks are packed.
Pack new toys and some favourites. Buy a few new toys for the trip but make sure to stagger giving out the toys.
Travelling with a baby begins the day both mother and child leave the hospital. It can be a scary time for first-time parents, and most mothers find themselves sitting in the back seat watching the baby for any sign of distress, whilst the father is driving more carefully than ever before. Rest assured that this first, and often stressful trip, will get much easier as time goes by.
TIPS TO HELP TRAVELLING By Car WITH BABY GO SMOOTHLY
Always avoid travelling in the hottest, or coldest, part of the day. In summer, it is usually at its hottest between the hours of 11.00am and 3.00pm. Even with air-conditioning, it can still get too warm in a car for most babies and toddlers. In cold weather, the coldest time of day is usually just before, and just after dawn breaks.
Allow extra travelling time. If it normally takes an hour to get to the destination, allow at least an extra half hour, just in case it is necessary to stop somewhere to change a dirty diaper, or feed the baby and young children.
Travel with the baby or toddler car seat in the middle of the back seat. Although not necessary, it does offer a little protection in the result of an accident, especially a side impact accident.
Try to use only natural fibres in the car seat. Cotton or lambswool are perfect for sitting a baby on for a long trip. No matter how cool the car, some babies will sweat whilst in their seat.
Check the adjustment on the seat belts in the car seat to ensure that they are not too tight (which can put pressure on baby’s shoulders) or too loose (causing them to fail in the event of an accident). As the child grows, the belts will need to be adjusted to ensure they fit comfortably and correctly.
No matter how long the trip is, there are a few things that should be packed for any baby and toddler
1. A fully stocked diaper bag. This should have at least 3 spare diapers, wet wipes to clean up any messes, a jar of baby food (if the baby is on solid foods) plus their favourite feeding spoon. 2. An extra bottle of formula already mixed up (if not breastfeeding), a Sippy cup with water, a plastic bag for storing soiled diapers (whether using cloth or disposables), and some spare blankets. 3. A change mat for those emergency diaper changes in the back seat of the car. It is a good idea to use a waterproof one (just in case of spills or sprinkles) and cover it with a cotton wrap or blanket. 4. A spare set of clothes for the baby and toddler. If possible, put two changes of clothes in, including underclothes and socks.
Most babies and young children will happily go to sleep on car trips. If parents follow the tips and tricks listed above, there is no reason why each and every trip will not go smoothly, at least from the baby’s point of view.
Aromatherapy can help to treat common winter illnesses such as colds, coughs, influenza, and dry and cracked skin. Winter is a time when many common illnesses occur, although common winter illnesses are not usually serious, they can cause symptoms that leave you feeling exhausted and drained of energy. Many essential oils possess the therapeutic properties necessary to bring the body back to full health this winter.
Lavender essential oil
Essential Oils for Common Colds
Many essential oils possess the bactericidal and anti-viral properties needed to combat the symptoms of the common cold. Some essential oils help the body to stimulate its own defense mechanism and prevent further infection. Useful essential oils that can be used in the practice of aromatherapy to fight the symptoms of the common cold include:
lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
lemon (Citrus limon)
rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Essential Oils for Coughs
Coughs often accompany colds, but can also be an uncomfortable symptom associated with many respiratory infections. Essential oils that are bactericidal, anti-catarrhic, and antiseptic can be used in aromatherapy to help to control the symptoms associated with coughs.
Suitable essential oils that can be used to treat coughs include:
Common colds and other viral infections are often referred to as influenza when in reality influenza is often more serious in its effects; however, bactericidal, anti-viral, and antiseptic essential oils may help with some of the symptoms of influenza. Consult a qualified professional for the more serious symptoms of influenza.
These essential oils include:
tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
clove (Eugenia caryophyllus)
Essential Oils for Dry Skin
Dry and cracked skin may be caused by a number of health problems, but it is a symptom of cold, winter winds too. Dry skin needs to be moisturized to prevent soreness and the possible infection of cracked skin, if left untreated. Essential oils that are moisturizing and soothing are suitable in aromatherapy for the treatment of dry skin.
These essential oils include:
rose (Rosa damascena)
geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
neroli (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil is suitable to treat an infection of cracked skin.
Aromatherapy for Common Winter Illnesses
How to use Essential Oils
Essential oils can be used in a number of ways in the practice of aromatherapy. In general, essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil or lotion base before applying them to the skin. Steam inhalation of essential oils is an effective method for treating respiratory complaints. This can be done with a steaming bowl of water or in a hot bath. In addition, add a drop of the chosen essential oil to a tissue and inhale.
Contraindications of aromatherapy
Some essential oils carry contraindications for use, depending on the health problem and the circumstances of the individual. These include pregnancy, blood pressure, elderly, and use with children. Make sure that you are aware of any contraindications associated with a particular essential oil before using it. In addition, use only the quantity specified for treatment.
You can also consult a qualified professional for further advice on the use of aromatherapy to treat common illnesses.
A Disney cruise can be a really exciting way to fit in both a Disney vacation and a travel cruise. They can also be more affordable for people who can’t get to a Disney park, but want to have a Disney vacation. They’re also popular with people who have already been to the Disney parks and love Disney, but want to experience it in a new way. Whatever your reason for going on a Disney cruise, there are some important things you should know about packing. Here are some tips on how to pack for a Disney Cruise!
Disney Cruise Ship at Castaway Cay
Pack your bags to a Disney Cruise like a flight
When you fly, you have a carry-on and you also have checked baggage. You won’t have access to your checked baggage for the duration of your flight. Sometimes a cruise can work similarly. Your first hour or up to a few hours from first arriving on the ship, your regular luggage may not be available to you and you’ll only have what you brought in your carry-on, so pack accordingly.
Minnie Mouse Disney Cruise Line bottle
Bring something to drink out of
On a Disney cruise, there will be free drinks or water on deck at all times, but the cups they give you are very small. You’ll have to go all the way back up to the top deck every time you need to refill your drink. This is why a lot of people like to bring their own drink bottle, so it holds more and saves them time and trouble. You can also bring it with you to Castaway Bay!
Keep all essentials on you
Again, you need to pack so that all essentials like medications and ID are on you at all times. You don’t want to risk getting separated from important items like this so carry them on you in a purse, fanny pack, backpack or other personal carry-on.
How to Pack for a Disney Cruise
Choose your outfits in layers
The weather can vary on a cruise and it’s very unpredictable. You should pack lightly and in layers that you can put on or take off as the weather calls for. This is much easier and will allow you to be comfortable at all times throughout your cruise.
These tips will get you started so that you can pack properly for your Disney cruise. Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit if you are heading to Castaway Cay, Disney’s Cruise Line’s private island! This is an essential part of your cruise-planning process.
How can you go about preparing an emergency kit for your vehicle this winter? There are some key items that you are going to want to have this winter if you are driving in an area that might be prone to having some snowfall or, otherwise, poor road conditions. Lets face it, the odds of getting stuck are going to be small. If you do, you are going to be glad that you have these items around for you!
This list also represents items that would be useful in the most common vehicle emergencies, but is by no means exhaustive of everything you may want to consider for your kit.
It’s important to pack yourself an emergency kit for your vehicle. Having these multipurpose items in your trunk can leave you more prepared even when help isn’t a day’s drive away.
Trunk Emergency Kit
This emergency kit should to fit in the corner of your trunk. Fit everything listed below in a plastic container.
First Aid Kit
You will need bandages, sterile wipes, alcohol pads, cotton swabs, Hydrogen Peroxide, and medical tape.
Flashlight and Batteries
A flashlight is vital in this kit as it can be useful for many things, including flashing for help, making you more visible to other drivers while you are standing or walking on the side of the road, looking at parts of the car that you normally cannot see because of no light. Make sure to use LED flashlights for the best results. Carry extra batteries in your kit too, at least six double A or Triple A depending on how many batteries your flashlight uses.
Lighters
Make sure to buy a few lighters that are disposable as they will last a long time.
Portable battery booster
Nothing takes the bounce out of your bungee like finding out your car won’t start during a winter day. With a portable battery booster, you won’t need to worry about that anymore. The battery booster will safely give you the needed charge to start your engine.
Fix-a-flat
A small air leak in a tire can be easily overlooked or not noticed at all which could leave you unexpectedly stranded. This ingenious and inexpensive Fix-a-Flat Tire Emergency Flat Tire Repair Solution can inflate and seal nearly any flat tire and make it safe to drive on for fifty miles. You can expect a small additional cost when getting the tire fixed, but well worth not being stranded.
Roll of duct tape
It’s true. Duct tape can fix almost anything. It can be used to hold lights, trim and a loose body panels in place so a simple fender bender will not leave you stranded. This could save you an expensive tow bill if you can temporarily hold parts in place until you can drive somewhere to fix them.
Spare fuses
It’s important to realize that a blown fuse may not indicate a serious problem; however, being caught without a replacement, can be.
Hand tools
You should have tools that can serve multiple functions, so as to save on space. For example, a screwdriver with interchangeable tips and an adjustable wrench. It is also a good idea to purchase tools made by reputable companies such as Craftsman, Irwin, or Kobalt. I have bought cheap tools in the past and have had them break the very first time I used them. This would only complicate your roadside situation.
Winter Emergency Kit For Your Vehicle
Floor Mats
The first thing you are going to want in your winter emergency kit are floor mats. Floor mats you ask? Yes, these are really good tools to have if you are ever stuck in a winter environment. The nice thing about having floor mats is that not only are you going to keep the snow off the floor of the car, but if you are stuck, you can use them as a means of a flat surface for your tires. This will allow your tires to get out of snowy areas, or out of the driveway if it is stuck.
Spare Parts to Include in the Winter Emergency Kit
The next thing you are going to want in you winter emergency kit are some spare parts. A spare tire is good, and any other spare parts that you can think of. Anything that can get something to be unstuck easily is a good thing as well. The fans in your car can also get stuck. If you have a stick, or something hard to whack against the dash, it can be helpful.
Stay Warm
Keep lots of blankets, and other things that can keep you warm in your car. Some extra coats, or maybe some boots and gloves will work out too. In lieu of that, you should keep some hand warmers, and foot warmers in the car. If the car stops running and it gets cold quick, these will help you keep warm for hours at a time. Three packs of those can keep your warm for almost 24 hours. They usually only cost a couple of dollars per pack.
SOS Flash Code
It is worth learning the flash code for SOS, Save Our Souls, etc. Grab your flashlight, and do three long, three short, and three long flashes. You can even use the high-beams or low beams of your vehicle and even do the same thing with the horn of the vehicle which, in this scenario, is probably the best thing to do.
How to Prepare a Winter Emergency Kit for your Vehicle
Other items to include in your winter emergency kit are food, water, and candles. The main thing is to stay warm when you are stuck on the road. Have lots of items that can keep you warm, or keep your heater running for short periods of time. Have items that can help you get out of snowy areas, like a portable shovel, and always do what you have to to stay safe.
When it comes to “snickerdoodle anything”, there are pretty much two types of people… those who love the flavour and those who hate it. If you belong in the first category this recipe for snickerdoodle blondies is definitely one to consider!
What Are Snickerdoodle Blondies?
Think of a blondie as a brownie without chocolate or a treat that tastes similar to a chocolate chip cookie without the chocolate. Some blondie recipes even have somewhat of a butterscotch taste! It all depends on the finished product.
Snickerdoodle cookies are thought to have originated in Germany. They’re made with basic ingredients to include sugar, oil, butter, and flour. This cookie is typically rolled in cinnamon before baking.
Looking at this recipe for snickerdoodle blondies makes me think of a dense coffee cake, without any frills. These would be great to bake, cut into squares, and then freeze individually for whenever you’re craving a sweet treat. It’s also a great option when you don’t have a lot in the pantry, but you’re still in the mood to bake.
Snickerdoodle blondies without cream of tartar
If you don’t have cream of tartar you can use white vinegar or fresh lemon juice to replace it. For this particular snickerdoodle blondie recipe, use 1 teaspoon of either one of these substitutes. It’s as simple as that and you won’t even notice the difference!
Toppings
I’m thinking you could add more of a crunchy topping to these bars, if you want to jazz them up a bit. Maybe crushed walnuts and other ingredients to create a typical “streusel” topping? The choice is up to you!
Recipe Notes
Make sure your eggs are room temperature. This makes it so much easier to incorporate everything into a smoother batter. Allow the melted butter to cool before adding it in to the mix for the same reason. You don’t want hot butter to scramble the eggs!
Snickerdoodle Blondies Recipe
Recipe for snickerdoodle blondies
Ingredients
1 cup melted unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
2 Tbsp. whole milk
2 large eggs room temperature
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
1/4 tsp. salt
Topping
2 Tbsp. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
How to make snickerdoodle blondies
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a 13×9 glass baking dish or baking pan with parchment paper. Set it to the side.
In a large bowl, add your melted butter, sugar, and milk. Stir to combine. Add in eggs one at a time, stir until combined after each egg is added.
In a separate large bowl, add flour, baking powder, cream of tartar and salt. Stir to combine. Add the butter mixture into the flour mixture stir until combined. Pour the snickerdoodle blondies batter into the 13×9 pan.
In a small bowl, add the 2 tablespoons sugar and 1½ teaspoons cinnamon. Stir to combine. Sprinkle the topping over the batter.
Bake for 25-28 minutes. Once removed from the oven, let it cool to room temperature before cutting.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Snickerdoodle Blondies as much as my family and myself did! If you make it, please share your photos with us on Facebook or Twitter! Also, check out all of our other Recipes!
Snickerdoodle Blondies Recipe
Lyne Proulx
This recipe for Snickerdoodle Blondies is great to cut into squares, and then freeze individually for whenever you're craving a sweet treat.
Line a 13×9 glass baking dish or baking pan with parchment paper.
Set it to the side.
In a large bowl, add the melted butter, sugar, and milk.
Stir to combine.
Add in the eggs one at a time, stir until combined after each egg is added.
In a separate large bowl, add the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar and salt.
Stir to combine.
Add the butter mixture into the flour mixture stir until combined.
Pour the batter into your 13×9 pan.
In a small bowl, add the 2 Tablespoons sugar and 1½ teaspoons cinnamon.
Stir to combine.
Sprinkle the topping over the batter.
Bake for 25-28 minutes.
Once removed from the oven let it cool to room temperature before cutting.
Notes
Make sure your eggs are room temperature. This makes it so much easier to incorporate everything into a smoother batter. Allow the melted butter to cool before adding it in to the mix for the same reason. You don’t want hot butter to scramble the eggs!
If you don’t have cream of tartar you can use white vinegar or fresh lemon juice to replace it. For this particular snickerdoodle blondie recipe, use 1 teaspoon of either one of these substitutes. It’s as simple as that and you won’t even notice the difference!
I’m thinking you could add more of a crunchy topping to these bars, if you want to jazz them up a bit. Maybe crushed walnuts and other ingredients to create a typical “streusel” topping? The choice is up to you!
Essential oils can aid in healing and can be combined with meditation. More and more people are turning away from over-the-counter medications and taking a more holistic approach to healing. In aromatherapy, certain essential oils have healing qualities that can assist in easing depression, lowering blood pressure, aiding digestion, and many other ailments.
Healing With Essential Oils
Aromatherapy
Some essential oils enhance a meditation by their calming effects, enabling a person to concentrate better. Others, such as healing essential oils, can be combine with a meditation to optimize the healing effect.
Sandalwood Essential Oil
Sandalwood originated in India and is considered a sacred fragrance. Some of the benefits credited to Sandalwood are its use as an antiseptic and for relieving cramps.
Sandalwood also has a calming and relaxing influence which can help quiet the mind in preparation for meditation. It can also be use as an aphrodisiac.
Juniper EssentialOil
Another essential oil that can help calm the mind for meditation is Juniper. This purifying oil comes from ripe, dried berries. It can work as a diuretic and aides in digestion.
Juniper is good for sore muscles, along with aches and pains, though notably, this essential oil should not be used by pregnant women.
Lemon and orange essential oils
Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon has long been associated with cleanliness and freshness. Think how many cleaning products are lemon scented! This essential oil can reduce itching from insect bites and can be use to neutralize acid.
Orange oil originated in China. It is a positive and soothing scent which can help prevent car sickness. Orange oil is very relaxing for the mind and can help ease tension headaches. It is good for anyone attempting to balance mind and spirit and orange oil also works well as a fever reducer.
Bergamot Essential Oil
Bergamot can work as an antidepressant by revitalizing an individual while trying to create emotional balance. It can be use as an appetite stimulant and as an aid in digestion. This uplifting oil can help relieve stress, anxiety, and lift someone’s spirit.
Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang-Ylang is a balancing oil that can reduce anxiety, help calm anger, and ease depression. This purifying oil works well with lowering blood pressure and alleviating headaches. Ylang-Ylang can reduce frustration and bring about feelings of joy and peacefulness. It can also help in balancing breathing.
Meditation and the use of essential oils can go hand in hand whether it be for healing the mind or body. Merely light the oil lamp at the beginning of the meditation and be prepared to reap all of the benefits this combination provides. Be sure to check out the essential oils contraindications post before using them!
Note: Minnie Van Service is presently retired at Walt Disney World.
There’s something very exciting at Walt Disney World Resort – the Disney Minnie Van service! This transportation service is available to everyone at Walt Disney World and accessed via the Lyft app. You can also get picked up from the Orlando International Airport to your Disney Resort hotel or select surrounding hotels.
Disney Minnie Van in front of the Contemporary Resort.
So, what is it?
Basically, it’s a Lyft, but in a van painted like Minnie Mouse. It’s a safe and convenient way for park guests to get around on Disney and also in the areas surrounding the park. You can travel from your hotel to the park, to dining reservations, family gatherings, or even to go shopping while also vacationing at Disney.
The private vans are comfortable and roomy, and they are quick to get to you and pick you up, and to take you wherever you need to go in the area. Any Disney fan is sure to get a kick out of the experience, and it’s one you can’t find anywhere else. When no ordinary taxi or Lyft will do, call a Disney Minnie Van!
Disney Minnie Van driver
The driver
Each van is driven by a friendly Disney Cast Member and it’s really easy to use. All you need to do is download the Lyft app to your smartphone or mobile device, then open it anywhere near Walt Disney World Resort or parks and choose the Minnie Van option. Each Disney Minnie Van is equipped with 2 child safety seats. The Disney Cast Members are trained to install them for you.
How does the Disney Minnie Van work?
In the Lyft app, you will need to confirm your pickup location. Enter your Disney World Resort destination and tap “Request”. This is all basically how a regular Lyft works, too. Then, the app will display a tracker showing the Disney Minnie Van en route to you and give you an identifying number so you can spot your car when it gets to you.
Pricing
Prices area calculated based on distance traveled from your pick-up location to the requested destination within Walt Disney World.
You will see the total cost before you agree to the pick-up. You pay for the service conveniently through the Lyft app.
All About the Disney Minnie Van
Hours of operation
Minnie Van service operates from 6:30 AM to 12:30 AM daily. Hours of operation are subject to change.
It’s easy and fun and it’s a great way to get you and your family to wherever you need to be while visiting Disney World!
Are you planning to breastfeed your baby? Nature is a wonderful thing. When women produce a child they typically also produce breast milk. Did you know that in order to produce enough breast milk for your baby you should pay attention to the food you eat? Breastfeeding is a natural way to nourish your baby, but if you’re not healthy then feeding the baby may deplete your stores of vitamins and minerals to supply the baby. You can consider to choose foods that will help increase breast milk production.
Woman holding a baby
When you breastfeed your baby, you might want to make sure that your breast milk is as nourishing and healthy for your baby as possible. If you would like to help improve the quality of your breast milk, there is also some suggestions for you below.
How To Help Increase Breast Milk Production
A poor diet can also affect the amount of breast milk you produce. You want to eat healthy, nutritious foods as much as possible while breastfeeding.
BALANCED DIET
Because the nutrients in your body are being shared with your baby, you might want to consider having a well-balanced diet that will provide both you and baby with quality nourishment. Fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and healthy fats are all important aspects of a healthy breastfeeding mom diet. Eating healthy will also help you keep your energy levels up.
Foods to Increase Breast Milk Production
HYDRATION
Producing breast milk can use up some of your hydration, so in order to produce better quality milk, you should increase your fluid intake. Drink lots of water. Seriously, water is your best friend. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugary beverages. Try to drink a whole glass of water with each feeding as well as in between. For breastfeeding moms, the goal should be between 8 and 10 cups of fluid each day.
SUPPLEMENTS
It can be hard to get enough of some vitamins and minerals while breastfeeding. Consider taking a nursing blend vitamin supplement. This will help you stay healthy and provide more quality breast milk for your baby. Talk to your doctor if you feel you might need supplements to help you with breastfeeding.
Best Food That Helps Boost Your Breast Milk Production
You can try these foods to help you increase breast milk production for your baby and keeping your own energy and health up.
Oats- Energy, fiber, controls blood sugar
Almonds- Omega-3 and Vitamin E
Apricots- calcium, fiber, lactation hormones
Carrots- Vitamin A
Barley- increases hydration
Asparagus- Vitamins A and K, fiber, stimulates lactation hormones
Salmon- Essential fatty acids
Cumin- fat burner, reduces acidity that could cause digestive irritation
Along with the knowledge of what to eat to help increase breast milk production, you should also know what foods to avoid. You may be surprised to learn that while you should eat plenty of fruits, oranges, berries and pineapples should be avoided. Also, lettuce, cabbage, raw onion, strong herbs, and caffeinated beverages are not good choices for breastfeeding moms. This doesn’t mean you can’t pump and splurge every now and then, but for the most part, you should try to eat and drink healthy for your baby.
Your baby will survive on your breast milk even if you don’t take these above mentioned steps. These are simply suggestions to help improve your breast milk quality. Breastfeeding can be challenging at times, so do not hesitate to contact your family doctor or a lactation consultant with your concerns. You can also find valuable information on the City of Ottawa Breastfeeding Support website.
The more you know about how your diet affects your breast milk, the better equipped you are to provide for and nourish your baby. Are there any other tips on how to increase breast milk production and to improve breast milk quality you would like to add or any foods you would put on our list? Comment below!
When some people think of Miami, they think sunny Florida beaches, cocktails by the pool, late night bar hopping in South Beach, and spending up big in Miami’s boutiques. But Miami has a long list of natural wonders, world-class museums, and fascinating areas to explore with children. With the help of this handy guide, parents can take advantage of Free Things to Do with Kids in Miami and find activities and attractions to do with their children in Miami!
Miami Florida
One way to get a feel for downtown Miami and introduce children to the size and feel of this dynamic city is to get onboard the Metromover. This free, driverless sky train takes passengers to 20 stations on three separate loops. Trains arrive every 90 seconds in peak hour, and every three minutes in off peak periods.
With stops including sites such as Freedom Tower and the Pérez Art Museum and city library at the Miami Dade Cultural Centre, the Miami Metromover is a great way to save on taxi fares, and is easily accessible with prams and trolleys. Visitors can see a list of Metromover stops and plan their trip by visiting the official Metromover website.
Free Things to Do with Kids in Miami Florida
Miami Children’s Museum ~ Photo by Smart Destinations on Foter.com / CC BY-SA
1. Miami Museums Open Their Doors to Children for Free
Children who like to explore museums will love Miami. Not only does the Florida city have the usual art and history museums, it’s also home to a Children’s Museum, filled with interactive exhibits. Kids can see sands from around the world as they climb through a two-storey sandcastle, design their own bank bills in a six foot piggy bank, dress up as superheroes, and steer a fire truck to an emergency, and much more.
Every month, the Miami Children’s Museum lets children explore the hundreds of exhibits for free. To take advantage of this offer, simply visit the museum at 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, on the third Friday of the month between 3 and 9pm.
Kids who love art will enjoy a trip to the Miami Art Museum, which has a range of activities for children including live music, storytelling, games and guided tours. The Museum is free for families with children between 1 and 4pm on the second Saturday of every month. The Miami Art Museum is found at 101 West Flagler Street.
Star gazing children will be blown away by the star show at the Weintraub Observatory. On the first Friday of each month at 8pm, the Observatory puts on a free planetarium show which is then followed by an Observatory session where children can peer through telescopes and marvel at the planets, including the rings of Saturn and the moons of Jupiter.
Free Things to Do with Kids in Miami Florida
2.Making the Most of Miami’s Beaches and National Parks with Kids
While some may believe certain sights on Miami’s beaches are best suited for adults, families with young children can claim a patch of sand in the family friendly stretches of beach between 53rd and 63rd Street. This is where big and small kids throw themselves into sand castle building and searching for buried treasure. Not to mention enjoying the local playground.
The fun continues in the stunning natural areas surrounding Miami, including Biscayne National Park, where children can spot porpoises and manatees from the shore. Budding young fishermen can learn tips and tricks at the National Park’s free fishing classes, while those with kayaks and canoes can launch them for free into the mangrove fringed waters and look out for sharks and rays amongst the schools of fish.
On the second Sunday of the month from December to April, Biscayne National Park is host to a Free Family Fun Fest. Children are given free passports which they can have punched at each of the five hands on activity stations around the park. Those who collect all five receive a special button as a souvenir.
Florida Lighthouse at Key Biscayne ~ Photo by jpellgen (@1179_jp) on Foter.com / CC BY-NC-ND
3. The Cape Florida Lighthouse A Great Spot for a Family Picnic
Families can then check out the Cape Florida Lighthouse at Key Biscayne, and enjoy a picnic by the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. They may then consider joining one of the lighthouse tours that are conducted at 10 am or 1 pm each day by a ranger.
Tour spots available on a first come best-served basis, and include a visit to the reproduction of the Keeper’s Cottage, and then the chance to step into the lighthouse itself. Weather permitting, it may be possible to walk up to the top of the lighthouse where the family can take in stunning views. To join the tours, visitors need to meet at the entrance gate to the lighthouse shortly before 10 am and 1 pm.
Then it’s back to the city to see what else takes a visiting family’s fancy! Every year Miami has a variety of special events that include free activities and festivals for the family. For more information about Free Things to Do with Kids in Miami Florida that may be on when they are in town, tourists can visit the City of Miami’s calendar of events!
Essential oils are one of the most powerful natural herbal tools. High quality, therapeutic-grade oils can be used to assist healing of almost any emotional or physical condition. But there are circumstances in which there could be essential oil contraindications to follow. Aromatherapy and essential oils should not be used for certain conditions and should be avoided.
Essential oil bottle beside a flower.
Essential Oils and Underactive Thyroid
Many essential oils are good for the thyroid gland – myrtle and spearmint are known to boost thyroid function and support an underactive or hypothyroid condition. But it’s recommended that people who are hypothyroid avoid wintergreen essential oil.
Wintergreen is one of the best oils for pain relief. It is naturally high in salicylates, a type of chemical that acts as an anaesthetic to numb pain; however, salicylates may interfere with transport of one of the primary thyroid hormones, T4, through the bloodstream. Less T4 in the blood means less is available to the body’s systems, worsening the appearance of a hypothyroid condition.
the oils used are known to be pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils;
a woman is in good health, has cleansed fairly regularly or recently (so the oils will not trigger massive cleansing that can harm her baby);
she is familiar with essential oils and their impact on her body and her health.
Unless these are the case, it may be a good idea to avoid
most essential oils during pregnancy.
Essential Oil Contraindications
Essential Oils and Drug Interactions
Most essential oils do not cause drug interactions, but as new drugs become available, it is always a good idea to ask your doctor whether you should avoid using essential oils or herbal supplements while you are on medication.
One of the few known drug-essential oil interactions involves Coumarin, an anticoagulant (blood thinner). Those taking Coumarin are advised not to drink grapefruit juice, since eating grapefruit can increase uptake of the drug and presents a risk of overdosing. The same is true of grapefruit essential oil, which should be avoided by those using this drug. In general, however, essential oils are safe to use while taking medication.
As you can see, there are certain essential oils that should be avoided if used during pregnancy and if a person is epileptic, has a thyroid condition, or is taking particular prescription drugs. Follow these essential oils contraindications to avoid any negative effects. You can also consult a health care professional, like your family doctor, for safe usage of any essential oils.
One of the best ways to save time and hassle in the parks at Disney World is to use Mobile Order at select Disney restaurants. Mobile Order as an option is gaining traction and the number of restaurants offering the service has grown substantially since it debuted in May of 2017. Here is everything about Disney World Mobile Order and how it works.
Woodys Lunch Box Mobile Order Pick Up sign at Hollywood-Studios.
What is Disney Mobile Ordering
Mobile Order is a feature on the My Disney Experience app. If you have not downloaded My Disney Experience, you should definitely do it before you go on your trip. It allows you to manage everything on your phone. Your reservations, FastPasses,room key, and more are all on the app. Plus, you can see current wait times for Disney attractions and see an interactive map to help guide you. You may even get special alerts to let you know when wait times decrease in an area of interest.
One more incredible feature of this useful
free app is the mobile order function. This allows you to place a customized
order and pay for your food all without waiting in line!
Lunch at Woody’s Lunch Box ordered via mobile ordering.
How does Disney World Mobile Order Work
Mobile Ordering is a very simple process. In the My Disney Experience app, tap the Order Food option. The icon is of a smart phone with a knife and fork. You can then select your dining location of choice from a list of eligible options. Once you choose your Disney restaurant, you can either find its location, get directions, or order food.
At the top of the ordering screen are tabs for beverages, entrees, snacks, etc. and below are the menu options to choose from. You can build your order by responding to prompts and customize using an option on the bottom of the screen. When you are done, you can pay with your credit card. When you are near the restaurant they will begin making your food.
Woody’s Lunch Box Mobile Ordering
Tips on How to Use Disney Mobile Ordering
You can order from far away and they will begin making it when you get closer. If are not alone, it’s always best to stake out a table and have somebody hold it while you pick up the food. You will receive an alert when your food is done; however, I have picked up my food prior to receiving an alert at some locations.
Woody’s Lunch Box menu for Mobile Order.
Where is Disney World Mobile OrderOffered
Mobile Order is strictly offered at select quick service locations. The service is rapidly growing and is available at most locations at Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Notable exclusions are Gaston’s Tavern and Sunshine Tree Terrace at Magic Kingdom, and Dockside Diner at Hollywood Studios. Epcot currently offers Mobile Order in three quick service locations: Electric Umbrella, Liberty Inn, and Sunshine Seasons.
Woody’s Lunch Box Mobile Order Payment.
Epcot utilizes Mobile Order the least of all the parks, leaving quick service at 10 of the 11 World Showcase Pavilions, plus Refreshment Port and Refreshment Outpost without a mobile option as of yet.
Disney Springs may welcome Mobile Order to more locations in the future. So far the service is only available at D-Luxe Burger.
Disney World Mobile Order: Everything You Need to Know
We used mobile order at a few quick service restaurants during our last trip at Walt Disney World. The photos above are showcasing our meals we ordered with the App from Woody’s Lunch Box at Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios. Waiting time in line was 25 minutes, but within 10 minutes of using the Mobile Order our lunch was ready to pick up at the counter window. I strongly suggest using the Disney Mobile Food Order App to purchase your meals!
Do you use mobile ordering at Disney when you visit? Comment below!
We grow up on board games and some board games grow up with us. On family nights and rainy days, we turn time after time to the classics, removing a twenty-year-old edition of Monopoly, The Game of Life, or Clue from closet shelves. Why these three? Like most board games, they too are governed by dice-rolling, wheel-spinning, and chance. See below why they are the 3 best classic family board games to play with your family!
Canadian Monopoly Game
Monopoly
It is only fitting that the business shark’s board game makes the king of the list. It was invented by Charles B. Darrow during the Great Depression. It will surprise you to know that the game, now sold in 103 countries and produced in 41 languages, was originally rejected by Parker Brothers. It wasn’t until after Darrow produced it on his own with such success that he couldn’t meet demand that Parker Brothers made a deal with him. Years later, hundreds of special editions of the game exist including a Canadian Monopoly . Even McDonald’s runs an annual Monopoly-based prize-winning promotion.
How To Play
The object of Monopoly is to become the wealthiest player through real estate strategy including buying, building on, renting, and selling properties. The term “Monopoly” itself is used to describe when a player buys all of the properties within a set, which are usually three like-coloured squares on the board game. You can only build on properties you have a Monopoly over, and you can only buy the properties you land on, so this is where the luck of the roll comes in. The most lucrative set is “Park Place” and “Boardwalk.”
Other elements of chance include “Community Chest” and “Chance” squares: when you draw a card you might be saddled with a doctor’s fee, school tax, or sent to the nearest railroad and made to pay the owner twice the rent he or she is entitled. Alternatively, you could inherit money, profit, or obtain the now infamous “Get Out of Jail Free” card. Don’t forget to collect $200 when you pass go!
Monopoly does have the potential to stretch on for long periods of time and can get very competitive; but it is this very quality, along with the glory of capitalism that is as appealing now as it was in the Great Depression, that both frustrates and keeps players coming back.
The Game of Life ~ Photo by djprybyl on Foter.com / CC BY
The Game of LIFE
Now produced by Hasbro, Life as we know it was originally inspired by The Checkered Game of Life, an 1860 invention created by Milton Bradley himself. The modern board game version re-envisioned by Reuben Klamer was released in 1960 and has been thriving ever since. Just as trends and times change, many subsequent editions of The Game of Life have been released over the years to reflect those changes, but always the game remains one of personal narrative with which players can identify.
How to Play
The modern board game begins with two options: “Start College” and “Start Career”. As in real life, players who elect to go to college start the game by taking out thousands of dollars in loans. Players move their car along the track by spinning a dial numbered 1-10 and following the command on the square that they land on.
Good behaviour and character-building experience is rewarded: landing on “Study in Europe,” “Adopt a pet,” “Baby boy!” or “Don’t drink and drive”. This prompts you to collect a LIFE tile, which at the end of the board game, is flipped over to reveal a large monetary bonus. But in addition to prompts like “Write Best-seller. Collect $80,000,” Life has it downs, too: landing on squares such as “Taxes Due,” “Tree falls on house. Pay $15,000 if not insured” and “Tropical vacation. Pay $25,000” reflect life’s varied expenditures.
Though some elements of the game are perhaps unrealistic, a minimum salary of $40,000 a year, drawing careers, homes, and stocks from a hand of cards, and the limited choice of retiring in either “Countryside Acres” or “Millionaire Estates”, the game does present a reasonable depiction of life’s traditional milestones. Players are required to stop at certain points along the road for a job search, to get married, and to buy a house. With the timeless journey it offers, it is easy to see how The Game of Life has remained popular throughout the years. This is a favourite of both family board game nights and children playing pretend.
In 1998, The Game of Life CD-ROM, an interactive computer edition of the game, was released.
The Game of Clue ~ Photo by arbyreed on Foter.com / CC BY-NC-SA
Clue Game
Cluedo was invented by Anthony E. Pratt and first released by Waddingtons in 1949, and in the same year the US rights to the game were bought by Parker Brothers, who marketed it as Clue. Like Monopoly and Life it is now produced by Hasbro.
What makes Clue one of the most outstanding board games is its unique and intriguing story premise. Mr. Boddy (Mr. Black in other countries) has been murdered in his mansion and it is up to you to figure out who is responsible. The whodunit plot of Clue has six suspect characters: Colonel Mustard, Professor Plum, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock, Miss Scarlet, and Miss White.
How to Play Clue
At the beginning of the game three cards, one character card, one weapon card, and one room card are slipped into a case file. The rest of the cards are dealt to the players, who then roll the dice to navigate the mansion. When a player enters a room he or she can voice a theory, listing a suspect, weapon, and the room he or she is in. For example: “I think it was Mr. Green with the lead pipe in the ballroom”. Other players check their hand of cards: if it contains one or more of the three items listed Mr. Green, Lead Pipe, and Ballroom, that player must show the inquirer one card. Players keep a detective’s list of suspects, weapons, and rooms, and as they move from room to room. All this in conjecture to narrow down the list by process of elimination.
When a player is confident that he or she has pinpointed the killer, weapon, and room, he or she then moves to the centre of the board game. The player then makes an accusation: “It was Professor Plum with the candlestick in the library”. The player then checks the three cards inside the confidential case file; if they match, the accuser wins the game.
“The Classic Detective Board Game”
Called “The Classic Detective Board Game”, Clue has been applauded for teaching the ability to use logic and reason. It was published into a successful children’s crime-solving / mystery book series (published by Scholastic in the 1990’s). And it has also been adapted into a 1985 film with three possible endings.
Top 3 Best Classic Family Board Games
Unlike other games, Monopoly, The Game of Life, and Clue capitalize on timeless elements of story and engage us again and again!
What is your favourite board game and why? Comment below!
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